Muscle Strain is one of the most common conditions that need to be treated in a hospital or doctor's office. Muscle strains are caused by injuries to the muscle or tendon that connects the muscles to the bones. Small muscle or tendon strains may only cause the muscle or tendon to stretch too much. More serious strains may cause partial or total tears in the tissues. Learn more about muscle strains and visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction for walk-in injury diagnosis and treatment today!

What is a Muscle Strain?

A muscle strain results from a muscle that has been stretched too tight or stretched out too far. It can happen through improper stretching of a muscle, its overuse or fatigue. A muscle strain can happen in almost any muscle, but the most common ones are in the neck and shoulder, in the lower back, and behind the thigh in the case of the hamstring.

Symptoms of Muscle Strain

The signs and symptoms of muscle strain vary depending on the severity of the injury. The most common signs are pain or tenderness, and restricted movement of the muscle that has been strained. You may also experience swelling and weakness of the muscle. You may also see redness or bruising on the affected area.

The most common symptoms of muscle strain are mentioned as under:

1. Pain:

This is one of the first signs. The pain can range from mild to severe.

2. Swelling:

The affected muscle will often swell up.

3. Muscle Spasms:

The strain may be accompanied by muscle spasms or cramping.

4. Limited Range of Motion:

You may experience reduced flexibility and limited movement in the affected muscle.

Causes of Muscle Strain

There are many causes of muscle strain. The most common causes include the following:

1. Overexertion:

Overexertion or putting too much stress on a muscle can cause muscle strains.

2. Poor Conditioning:

Muscle strains can be caused by insufficient conditioning and lack of flexibility.

3. Incorrect Lifting:

Strains can also be caused by lifting heavy objects using improper techniques.

4. Sudden Movements:

Muscle strains can also be caused by swift, sudden movements or excessive stretching.

Treatment for Muscle Strains

Depending on the severity of the muscle pain, the treatments recommended involve the following:

1. Rest:

Allow the affected muscle to rest to promote healing.

2. Ice:

Apply ice to the injured area for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling and numb pain.

3. Compression:

Use compression bandages to minimize swelling.

4. Elevation:

Elevate the injured limb to reduce swelling.

5. Pain Medications:

Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation.

6. Physical Therapy:

A physical therapist can provide exercises to improve flexibility and strength.

7. Heat Therapy:

After the initial 48 hours, heat therapy may be beneficial for relaxing muscles and promoting blood flow.

Get Same-Day Care at AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction

It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific situation. You will be better off if you contact urgent care for the proper diagnosis and treatment of muscle strain before developing any further complications. For same-day acute injury treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction. Our board-certified medical providers can evaluate your condition and plan the best path to recovery with no appointment necessary.